THE issuance of arrest warrants against former presidential spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque, Cassandra Ong and dozens of others over alleged human trafficking through a POGO hub in Pampanga is a significant legal development.
These are not ordinary charges — they are non-bailable offenses under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003. The judiciary has acted decisively. Now, it is up to law enforcement to execute these warrants with the full force of the law.
Under the leadership of PGen. Rommel Marbil and CIDG chief PMGen Nicolas Torre III —the Philippine National Police is demonstrating its seriousness in dismantling organized crime, even when it involves high-profile personalities.
Torre’s track record in pursuing controversial figures such as former President Duterte and Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has earned him a reputation for being fearless yet methodical.
His involvement adds credibility to the operation and signals that this will not be just another forgotten case.
Harry Roque’s assertion that he is being politically persecuted may appear predictable, but it sidesteps the gravity of the accusations.
If he is indeed innocent, he should face the courts and clear his name. Instead, reports say he left the country secretly and is now seeking asylum in the Netherlands.
Mahirap paniwalaan ang mga ganyang galawan kung talagang malinis ang konsensya. Evading due process only casts further doubt on his credibility.
This case is a barometer of whether Philippine institutions can deliver justice in politically sensitive circumstances.
If the CIDG is successful in apprehending Roque, Ong, and others involved, it will reaffirm the rule of law and restore public confidence in our justice system.
Panahon na para ipakita na sa bansang ito, kahit mataas ang katungkulan mo noon — hindi ka ligtas kapag lumabag ka sa batas.
